Highlights and main attractions of the Cayo District

A land of beautiful forests and exquisite cave systems, this is an exciting destination for natural world enthusiasts, as well as those who are interested in the historical and cultural side of Belize.

Situated in western Belize, near the border with Guatemala, the Cayo District explores a range of habitats and landscapes, encompassing the pre-Columbian Maya ruins of Xunantunich, the national capital of Belmopan and the tourist town of San Ignacio, as well as the famous caves of Barton Creek. This is the largest district of Belize spanning over 2,000 square miles across diverse terrain, from lush river valleys and rugged mountains to rolling hills and sweeping farmland devoted to citrus orchards. Broadleaf jungle overlays limestone formations which, over time, have dissolved forming winding underwater rivers (thrilling for river tubing), sinkholes and spectacular caves.

Culture, wildlife and the National Park

Over 60% of the Cayo District has been designated as wildlife sanctuary, national park or forest reserve and eco tourism is a very important industry. Explore the physically diverse flora and fauna and delve into the cool waters beneath cascading waterfalls. Ply calm waters via canoe or roam the lands on horseback.You don’t have to be a dedicated birder to enjoy the birdlife here and with over 500 species listed in Belize, you may spot Keel-billed toucan (the national bird), as well as the emerald toucanet, vermillion flycatcher and blue-grey tanager.

The extensive Caracol is definitely worthy of a visit, sprawling approximately 10 kilometres in radius in AD 650. The most imposing of the sights here is the massive pyramid that soars over 50 metres into the air through the canopy of the dense jungle.

Activities here include hiking, horseback riding, moonlight jaguar quests and guided mountain biking, as well as swimming and birding. There are also caving and river-tubing available for the adventurous.

Cayo District Accommodation Options

Blancaneaux Lodge

The Blancaneaux luxury lodge originally purchased by Francis Ford Coppola is set amongst stunning jungle canopies, waterfalls and mountains.

Chaa Creek Lodge

Chaa Creek Lodge is a stunning eco-resort set amongst the wild jungle in Cayo District with luxury suites.

GAÏA River Lodge

Surround yourself with the mysteries of ancient Mayan history in this beautiful lodge on the banks of the Gaia River.

The Cayo District has some fantastic accommodation, in keeping with its focus on eco-tourism. Chaa Creek Lodge, on the banks of the Macal River, has a variety of options from ‘back to nature’ style to luxurious treetop suites. Blancaneaux Lodge was originally used as a family retreat by Francis Ford Coppola is a luxurious jungle lodge in the northwest corner of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest.

BOOK YOUR BELIZE SAFARI

Contact one of our Destination Specialists to start planning your journey to Belize. Please note we recommend a budget of from £7,000 / $10,000 USD per person for our style of trip to this destination.

Conservation

About